Not Safe Asia · Last reviewed: August 28, 2026

Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Laos?

No, tap water is not safe in either city; use bottled or boiled water.

It's less consistently available in very remote areas, so carrying extra bottled water or a portable filter is recommended for trekking.

No, boiling water before drinking is standard household practice throughout the country.

No, tap water in Laos is not safe to drink, including in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Bottled or boiled water is essential throughout the country.

Hardness

Not centrally published; not relevant given universal bottled/boiled use.

Locals Drink It?

Region

Asia

Cities Covered

—

Water Source

Treatment infrastructure is limited and inconsistent even in the capital Vientiane, with most rural areas lacking municipal treatment entirely.

Bacterial and parasitic contamination risk is significant nationwide due to minimal treatment infrastructure.

Not safe anywhere, including Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and rural trekking areas.

Not centrally published; not relevant given universal bottled/boiled use..

No, most Lao households boil water before drinking, as tap water is not treated to a potable standard.

•Bottled water is available in cities and most tourist areas, though supply can be limited in very remote areas — carry extra when trekking
•Use bottled water for brushing teeth
•Consider a portable filter or purification tablets for remote treks

Can you drink tap water in Vientiane or Luang Prabang?

Is bottled water available in rural Laos?

Do people in Laos drink tap water?

The safety rating and guidance on this page draw on the following sources. See our full methodology.